Phenomenal Video Saturday: The National

Another week, another video I’ve somehow never posted. This is getting ridiculous. I know how much you all live and breathe every word I say (type), you know? What’s that? Shut up, you say? I’m not that important, you say? Well, ha! Tell that to my supportive mother!

A little while ago, The National (a favorite of mine) played a new song, tentatively titled “The Runaway,” on Q TV. For any fans of the band, this is pretty much perfect. I was watching some live Okkervil River videos before I re-stumbled upon this gem, and as much as I love that band, I’ve come to realize how much more attention The National pays to the quality of their arrangements. There’s nothing haphazard about the placement of the piano (played here by Thomas Barrett aka Doveman) or the subtle horns. They all serve a purpose, and all the instruments play off each other silkily. Even if you find the song redundant or boring, it’s hard to not appreciate the care put into the construction of the track.